A beautiful strand of powder glass beads, made by the people of Krobo Mountain in Ghana, West Africa—reminiscent of early Venetian fancy trade beads.

Formed from recycled bottles and glass, each bead begins as finely ground powder, poured into molds and fired to shape. Surface decoration is then applied by hand using a paste of colored glass and water, traced delicately with a thin wooden stalk. The beads are fired a second time to permanently set their intricate patterns.

The result is a strand rich in texture, variation, and history. Each bead carries the mark of its maker—subtle shifts in size, tone, and motif ensure no two strands are exactly alike.

Measuring over 40 inches in length and finished with a lobster clasp and shell charm, it can be worn long, layered, or wrapped.

Each strand is unique and may vary slightly from the one pictured—an expression of process, place, and time. 

Every Vintage Finds piece has been hand selected by designer Martine Ilana with intention and care—sourced from across the world in search of objects with material integrity, history, and lasting relevance. No two are chosen at random; each is considered for how it can be worn, lived with, and kept over time.